Botswana Suspends film permits

All fellow filmmakers take note: There is a temporary suspension on film permits in Botswana, effective immediately.

The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT) wishes to inform all relevant stakeholders (researchers, institutions, film companies, photographers, media companies, Television networks) and the public about the suspension of issuance of Environmental Research, Filming and Photography Permits effective from 15th July 2015 up to 15th October 2015.

The Environmental Research, Filming and Photography Permit applies to all commercial and non-commercial filming, photographic and research activities undertaken within national parks, game reserves and protected areas, cultural heritage sites and national monuments under the managerial jurisdiction of MEWT.

The purpose of this suspension is to allow the Ministry to review the current process and existing guidelines and also align the process to the current Ministry priorities. However, this decision does not affect the current running permits and all applications received before the above date.

The Ministry regrets any inconvenience that might be caused by this decision. For further enquiries on this matter, contact Mr. G. Tapeng at 3647931, or E-mail: gtapeng@gov.bw or mewt@gov.bw